Saturday, 10 September 2011

Why do we see relatively few transgender asylum seekers among LGBT-persons fleeing from persecution? Does this indicate a relatively low level of persecution? Does it indicate a relatively low number of transgender persons? Seeking out information on persecution and discrimination of transgendered people around the world – including Europe – this paper first sets the scene for the analysis before focusing on a number of cases of transgender asylum seekers in Denmark.

Observations are made of the similarities and distinctions between asylum seeking of transgendered persons and other groups of LGBT asylum applicants. Furthermore, recommendations are made on how to counter systemic inequalities within the processes.

Søren Laursen is an activist and spokesperson of LGBT Denmark – The Danish National Organisation for Gay Men, Lesbians, Bisexuals and Transgendered Persons. Former member of the Refugee Appeals Board (the tribunal).